Anxiety and stress as potential causes of hand tremors

Hand tremors can be caused by various factors, including anxiety and physiological responses to stress. According to Dr. Ryan Barmore, a movement disorder specialist at Banner Health neurosciences, most people experience subtle movements even when attempting to keep their hands still, a phenomenon known as physiological tremor.

The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke defines tremor as an involuntary, rhythmic muscle contraction that causes shaking in one or more parts of the body, most commonly the hands, but also potentially the head, voice, trunk, or legs.

When the body experiences stress, it enters a ‘fight, flight, or freeze’ state. Stress hormones increase heart rate, blood pressure, and respiration, preparing muscles for action, which can result in trembling or shaking. While anxiety-induced tremors are generally not dangerous, they can be uncomfortable and may lead to a cycle of further symptoms like muscle tension and difficulty concentrating.